COFFEE WITH MANJUL BAJAJ @ URBAN SOLACE
Author of the book “Once Upon a Summer” in conversation with Sumaa Tekur
About the Author:
Manjul Bajaj grew up in Lucknow. She graduated in economics from Delhi University and then did a master's degree in rural management and another in environmental science. She worked in the field of environment and rural development before she became a writer. She is the author of Come, Before Evening Falls (2010), Another Man’s Wife (2012), In Search of Heer (2019), The Book of Bullah (2024) and The Songs of Meera (forthcoming).
She has also written two books for children - Elbie’s Quest (2013) and Nargisa’s Adventures (2016). Manjul’s work has been shortlisted for various literary prizes over the years. She currently lives in Goa with her husband, her two sons having flown the nest.
About the Book:
It’s 1906 in pre-independence India. Madeline, a lively, young English girl, develops a fascination for her handsome horse groom, Azeem.
In idyllic Nainital, between riding lessons for Madeline through pine forests, and English lessons for Azeem under a pear tree, an impossible, dangerous love, breaching the boundaries of race and class, starts to blossom.
Almost five decades later, in New York, the publisher Alfred Allye, who has lost his wife Rose, is nostalgic. He thinks about India; of the inviolate connection he shares with Azeem; about Rose and her deep attachment to Madeline. The recollections refuse to still; they spread outwards and onwards, carrying far-reaching ripples.
Once Upon a Summer, the latest novel by one of the most lyrical writers of our times, is a multi-generational ode to love. Equally, it is a story about the hold of memory; about its capacity to move across time and space and permeate lives.
About the Anchor:
Sumaa Tekur is a Bangalore-based writer and editor. She is the author of three books. The first is titled The Inner Light: A Beginner’s Guide to Spirituality & Finding Peace. It is a primer for those looking to dip their toes in spiritual waters. The second book is Table for One: A Solo Living Manual for the Curious Indian Woman. It is a part-manifesto part memoir about the culture and politics of living alone as a single woman in India.
Her third book is titled The Monks Who Laughed When the Bumblebee Stung Me. It is an account of her solo travel to 18 countries. Her upcoming book explores relationship separation, and the lessons in Indian mythology for modern relationships.
Sumaa started her professional career with leading publications like The Times of India, Deccan Herald, Femina and DNA. She holds a Masters in International Journalism from City University, London. Sumaa explores solo travel, among other creative pursuits. Sumaa lives in Bengaluru with her books, paints, canvases, lamps, and drums.
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